The girl had the most luxurious blond hair I’d ever seen. It glistened like liquid gold, cascading down her shoulders in a ripple of glittering waves. She was wearing designer jeans and was at least three inches taller than me.

At first I was so mad, I wouldn’t have surprised if steam came blowing out of my ears. How could he invite me to a party when he has his arm draped around her!

But then my brain’s more rational, logical side took over. Calm down, Erica. She’s probably just a friend.

So I decided to be the bigger man. Er, woman.

“Hi, my name is Erica. I don’t think we’ve met.” I smiled as I held out my hand, waiting for her to shake it.

She cocked an eyebrow at me and then kissed Brenden on the cheek.

“Ta, love, gotta dash,” she told him and then slithered away. My hand was still out-stretched, although I could feel the smile on my face beginning to wilt.

Brenden laughed nervously. “You’ll have to forgive Alex,” he said as he ran a hand through his hair. “She’s a little, ah, different.”